Record Your Own Audio

CREATE YOUR OWN AUDIO RECORDINGS

As a professor, there might be times when you have a need to create your own audio recordings. For example, if you are using Sway (part of Microsoft Office 365), you might want to add audio narration to accompany the visual content. This document covers some tips and “how-to” suggestions for creating your own audio recordings.

QUICK TIPS:

  1. MICROPHONE – Using a mic when possible is recommended. Often, the headphones that come with a device have a built-in mic, which usually work great. Most mics work well 4-6 inches from the speaker's mouth.

    No mic? In a controlled environment, using your devices built-in mic should still be all right - just make sure you are in a quiet space and that your device is close to the subject speaking. This option will not work well in a noisy environment.

  2. TEST RECORDING - always do a short test recording to ensure everything looks and sounds all right. This can save you a lot of time and frustration if something isn’t being captured properly.

APPLICATIONS FOR RECORDING AUDIO:

There are many applications available for recording and editing audio. Here are a few free options to get you started:

Audacity (Windows, Mac)

Audacity is a free open-source audio editor and recorder. It is easy to use while still providing a full suite of features.

Quicktime (Mac)

The standard free version of Quicktime on a Mac is another option for recording audio. Visit How to use QuickTime Player to learn more.

Voice Recorder (Windows)

Windows 10 comes with Voice Recorder installed. It is a simple application that allows audio to be recorded and trimmed.

Voice Memos (iOS, Mac)

Voice Memos is a quick and simple way to record audio and complete basic editing such as trimming an audio clip.

Easy Voice Recorder (Android, iOS)

Some Android phones come with an audio recorder installed. If your Android does not already have one, there are many free ones available, such as Easy Voice Recorder.

APPLICATIONS FOR EDITING AUDIO:

Many audio recording applications are capable of trimming or deleting portions of the recording, but sometimes there is a need to have access to additional editing features. Here are a couple of free, yet powerful audio editing applications:

Audacity (Windows, Mac)

Audacity is a popular, free, open-source audio editor and recorder. It is easy to use while still providing a full suite of features. Learn how to use Audacity.

Ocenaudio (Windows, Mac)

Ocenaudio is known for its ease of use and good range of effects. Learn how to use Ocenaudio.

ACCESSIBILITY:

Please remember that audio files also need to be accompanied by either a text transcript or text description that provides an equivalent version of the information. If you need a transcript of your audio file created, please visit our Captioning page and complete the Captioning Request Form located at the bottom.